Foundations of Complexity
Complexity theory, the field of study of complex systems, is a relatively recent theory. It is a broad theory encompassing nine research traditions-an aggregation of principles, concepts, theories, and disciplines. The nine interrelated complexity research traditions include: systems thinking, theoretical biology, nonlinear dynamical systems, graph theory, phase transitions, Turing's morphogenetic model, synergetics, far-from-equilibrium thermodynamics, and complex adaptive systems.
Holland (1995) suggested that seven basics (four properties and three mechanisms) are common to all complex systems. See Brownlee (2007), Smith and Bedau (2000), and Holland's TED Talk for details on these complex systems basics to respond to in this week's
Discussion.
To prepare for this Discussion, review the resources.
Post your perspective on Holland's properties and mechanisms of complex adaptive systems.
Next, explain what is useful and/or problematic in his approach.
Finally, explain how Holland's ideas might inform your understanding of the structure of organizations and how that may support your ability to lead or manage effectively.
Additional 3 references is required outside what is provided.
Resources
Holland, J. (2010). Building blocks and innovation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://tedxtalks.ted.com/video/TEDxUofM-John-Holland-Building;search%3Atag%3A%22TEDxUofM%22
Uhl-Bien, M., & Marion, R. (Eds.). (2008). Complexity leadership, part 1: Conceptual foundations. Charlotte, NC: Information Age.
Chapter 2, "Conceptual Foundations of Complexity Science: Development and Main Constructs" (pp. 17-48)
Smith, R. M., & Bedau, M. A. (2000). Is Echo a complex adaptive system? Evolutionary Computation, 8(4), 419-442. Retrieved from https://people.reed.edu/~mab/publications/papers/smith.pdf
Brownlee, J. (2007). Complex adaptive systems. Retrieved from https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.70.7345&rep=rep1&type=pdf
Nelson, C. (2005). Tagging, aggregation, and social relational models. Proceedings ofthe 2005 Complexity Science and Educational Research Conference, 31-43. Retrieved from https://www.academia.edu/Documents/in/Social_Relational_Models.